Start 'em young. If you want to raise a self-reliant kid, get these tools into their hands.

10 Tools Every Kid Should Learn to Use

10 Tools Every Kid Should Learn to Use

Don't let the potential hazards of hand and power tools keep your child from discovering the rewards of DIY competence. "Just because it's sharp doesn't mean it's dangerous," says Timothy Dahl, founder of ­BuiltbyKids.com. Demystifying the workshop is key. The more time your child spends there, the more quickly he or she will learn to respect tools. Mastering these 10 favorites will provide lessons in technique, maintenance, and safety. Just be sure to progress at a pace that's comfortable for you both.

Hammer

Hammer

Age 7

Any rambunctious kid should be comfortable swinging a hammer. Just be sure it's something light enough to handle correctly but sufficiently heavy to be effective. "No matter what the tool is, it has to fit," Dahl says. "And that goes for anyone, whether male or female, young or old." A claw hammer is ­essential for pulling the inevitable bent nails—and if your kid still struggles, predrill a few holes so he or she can figure out the correct technique.